First Cut
In October I received my first haircut since arriving here from the U.S. Between being busy and not really knowing where to go, I had put it off. I walked by Valentinos last week, a place that I had seen listed on google maps, and just a short walk from Waterloo station. It was a proper barber shop. So I gave a call today, no appointment needed and I walked over just before lunch (only 2 blocks away). There was no line and I jumped right in the chair. It was the most well done haircut I have received...ever! -- sorry mom...sis :) He zipped through it, shaping the edges...or should I say there weren't any edges or corners...no photos, so you'll have to take my word for it. There was even an intern peering over the stylist's shoulder, learning the trade (He assured me that he wasn't the intern, it was the guy over his shoulder) -- a nice benefit of working in the city...walking to the barber. Working adjacent to waterloo has many such conveniences.
Second Cut
I went back for my second cut at Valentino's. There are three stylists that work there. This time, I was serviced by a different one than the first time around, but service and cut was nearly as superb as the first time around. It has the atmosphere of a small neighborhood barbershop. If you want to be chatty, they will gladly talk with you. If you wish to quietly go about your way, no harm done there either. I appreciate that they use an open razor to "clean up" around your ears and neck (though this is optional). I walked in at about 2:35 p.m. and by 2:55 p.m. was on my way again. The clean up after the cut was quite thorough as well. They use a lightly powdered brush to clear the hair off your face. Then after they remove the protective cover from around you, a brush is used to gently clean any remaining hair from your clothes. Finally I was given a tissue so that I could wipe my face some more. I went back to work not feeling itchy. The service is well suited to giving cuts in the middle of a work day. read more